Language proficiency level C2. Conversation skills, monologue

Friends, if you want to learn more about levels A1 and A2 in learning English, we suggest you read this material carefully; Perhaps you will learn a lot of interesting and useful things for yourself.

As you already know, learning English is divided into stages or levels, each level has a certain degree of difficulty, specific tasks and exercises, reading, grammar, etc. Today we are taking a closer look at the initial or survival levels, that is, Beginner and Elementary , as well as the Pre-Intermediate threshold level.

It would seem that the Beginner and Elementary stages of English proficiency are in many ways similar. However, significant differences can be observed here. You cannot proceed to the Elementary level without first preparing Beginner.

Everything starts with the basics, and learning a language even more so. The Beginner level is perfect for those who have never studied English before and don’t have the slightest idea about it. This stage of English language proficiency allows you to construct several simple sentences, master the basics of grammar and reading rules, and acquire a small vocabulary. Also, it makes it possible to move on to the next level - Elementary.

The knowledge that the initial level provides is very extensive for this stage of learning English: mastering three simple tenses of verbs (present, past, future), the concept of articles, the ability to compose several simple sentences, the ability to characterize an object in simple words; vocabulary ranges from 500 to 700 words, ability to get acquainted, answer simple questions, write short text from simple sentences.

The Elementary level is a more serious level of knowledge and proficiency in English. And the range of opportunities and skills it provides is much wider. When approaching this level, a person learning English must have basic knowledge of the Beginner stage.

The knowledge acquired at this stage is sufficient to communicate in English at an everyday level. For example, while abroad, you can ask for directions, rent a hotel room, do some shopping, etc.

Your knowledge of grammar, speaking, reading, your vocabulary at this level is much wider and deeper. Of course, such proficiency in English cannot be called professional, but you are no longer a beginner in mastering the language.

What skills does this stage of training provide? Here they are: a clear understanding of the verb to be, mastering the tenses of verbs, including continuous and perfect ones; use of articles and modal verbs, pronouns and possessive case; expansion of vocabulary from 1000 to 1500, the ability to communicate on simple everyday topics, the ability to write a short story about yourself, family, hobbies, work, etc.

As we have already said, these levels belong to the category of Survival Levels or survival levels. This means that these levels of knowledge of the English language will help you navigate various everyday situations where English is needed.

We believe that in modern life it is not only useful, but also very important to speak English at least at these two levels, because such knowledge of English is required by modern technologies, the Internet, travel, etc.

Category A2 or pre-threshold level

Pre-threshold or intermediate level (Pre-Intermediate) is like a bridge between the basic stages and more advanced levels of English language proficiency. Why is this so? The fact is that this English language course begins with simple constructions learned during the training at the two previous levels. The Pre-Intermediate stage is an excellent opportunity to repeat, consolidate and systematize previous levels and acquired skills, as well as move on to a more complex stage of learning English Language.

By studying English at the Pre-Intermediate level, you gain even greater skills in the language: a clear understanding of verb tenses and the ability to distinguish them, understanding the conditional mood, replenishing your vocabulary with modal verbs that were not previously known; understanding of the passive verb, the ability to transform direct speech into indirect speech, understanding of pronouns and degrees of comparison of adjectives; vocabulary ranges from 1500 to 2000 words; the ability to speak in English on various topics and talk about yourself; understanding the main idea of ​​the text; ability to write essays, essays, letters.

All this suggests that at this level you are ready to perceive and master a more complex English language than at the previous two.

This stage of training allows you to work on the gaps and weak points in your English, improve it, and move on to a more complex level.

Friends, we want to wish you good luck in learning English Language. Don't give up, boldly move forward, and, step by step, level by level, you won't notice how English will become your second native language! See you again!

English level A2 is the second level of language proficiency in the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR), a system for determining different language levels compiled by the Council of Europe. In everyday speech, this level can be called basic (for example, “I speak basic English”). The term elementary is the official description of a level in the CEFR - it is a basic level. A student who has mastered a basic level of English can meet his or her basic communication needs.

How to determine that you know English at A2 level

The best way to determine whether your English language skills meet the A2 level is to take a high-quality standardized test. Below is a list of the main internationally recognized tests and their corresponding A2 scores:

What can you do with an A2 level of English?

Level of English A2 is sufficient for tourist travel in an English-speaking country and communication with native English speakers. However, level A2 is considered insufficient to establish deeper friendships. The A2 level of English also allows you to collaborate with English-speaking colleagues, but work communication in English is limited to well-known topics at the A2 level. An A2 level of English is not sufficient to conduct scientific research or to understand English-language media (television, cinema, radio, magazines, etc.).

According to official CEFR guidelines, a student proficient in English at level A2:

1. Can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to major areas of life to which it is directly related (e.g., basic information about family, shopping, geography, employment).
2. Can communicate within simple and everyday tasks that require a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar or everyday topics.
3. Can describe in simple terms individual aspects of his past, present, as well as issues related to areas with which he, she, and she directly interact.

Read more about knowledge of English at Level A2

Formal assessments of a student's knowledge are broken down into smaller sub-items for teaching purposes. Such a detailed classification will help you assess your own level of English or help your teacher assess the level of your students. For example, a student with an A2 level of English can:

• evaluate the work of a colleague at work.
• talk about the events of your life.
• describe your past, giving details of the most important milestones.
• entertain guests at home or visit a friend or colleague at his/her home.
• discuss your holiday plans and tell friends and colleagues about your holiday afterwards.
• talk about nature and travel.
• talk about your favorite movies and choose a movie to watch with friends.
• discuss clothes and what kind of clothes he/she would like to wear.
• participate in key discussions at work, including speaking in meetings about familiar topics.
• describe the accident or injury, obtain medical attention from a doctor, and fill out a prescription for medications.
• participate in simple business negotiations, greeting guests and attending general events.
• Understand and communicate basic business propositions in your area of ​​expertise.
• discuss and explain the rules of the games.

Of course, progress will depend on the type of course and the individual student, but it can be predicted that a student will achieve an A2 level of English proficiency in 200 hours of study (total).

The best way to determine whether your English language skills are at B1 level is to take a high-quality standardized test. Below is a list of the main internationally recognized tests and their corresponding B1 indicators:

What can you do if you know English at level B1?

Level B1 of English will be sufficient to communicate with native English speakers on familiar topics. In the workplace, a B1 level of English allows an employee to read simple reports on familiar topics and write simple emails in their professional field. However, level B1 is not enough to communicate in the workplace only in English.

According to official CEFR guidelines, a student proficient in English at level B1:

1. Understands the main ideas of clear, standard messages on familiar topics encountered regularly at work, school, leisure, etc.
2. Can communicate in most situations that may arise while in a country where the target language is spoken.
3. Can compose a simple, coherent text on topics that are familiar to him or that interest him personally.
4. Can describe impressions, events, dreams, hopes and aspirations, express and justify their opinions and plans.

More information about knowledge of English at level B1

Official statements about a student's skills are broken down into smaller sub-items for teaching purposes. Such a detailed classification will help you assess your own level of English or help your teacher assess the level of your students. For example, a student who knows English at level B1 will be able to do everything that a student at level A2 can do, and also:

• discuss dreams and hopes for the future in personal and professional spheres. Organize and complete a job interview in your professional field.
• talk about your television preferences and favorite programs.
• describe your education and your plans for future studies.
• talk about favorite pieces of music and musical trends. Know how to plan an evening of listening to live music.
• talk about leading a healthy lifestyle, give and receive advice on healthy habits.
• talk about relationships and dating, including communicating with people on social networks.
• visit a restaurant, order food, engage in small talk at dinner and pay the bill.
• participate in discussions in your area of ​​expertise, enlisting help in understanding certain issues.
• discuss safety issues in the workplace.
• discuss standards of polite behavior and respond appropriately to impolite behavior.

Of course, progress will depend on the type of course and the individual student, but it can be predicted that a student will achieve a B1 level of English proficiency in 400 hours of study (total).

Level C1 on the European Framework of Reference for Languages ​​(CEFR) corresponds to the concept of “advanced user”. Level B2 is “independent user”.

Since CEFR is a scale of competencies, that is, skills, the criteria for it are formulated based on what a person should be able to do.

Let's look at these skills by aspect and try to understand how C1 differs from B2:

Listening to speech

B2:

I can understand long passages of speech and lectures, and follow even complex developments of arguments, provided I am sufficiently familiar with the topic of the message. I can understand most television news and journalism programs. I understand most films with standard pronunciation.

C1:

I can understand long stretches of speech even when it is not explicitly structured and when the relationships between parts of a text or utterance are only implied and not expressed. I can understand movies and TV shows without too much effort.

Hooray! When moving from levels B to levels C, we are able not only to understand, but also to creatively transform speech in real time - the key thing is that at C1 a person can understand the speech of another even if that other person does not speak well.

We can already understand what our interlocutor wants to say, even if he himself did not care about it. And of course, movies and TV shows are not very difficult for us now, although sometimes we still have to work harder.

USEFUL ARTICLE

Reading

B2:

C1:

I understand long and complex literary or factual texts and can distinguish them by style. I understand articles on professional topics or lengthy technical instructions even if they are not related to my field of work.

In reading, the main breakthrough is the ability to read specialized professional literature not in one’s specialty and understand it.

Speaking skills, dialogue

B2:

I can enter into dialogue with native speakers, and I communicate fluently enough, without noticeable pauses, and spontaneously, that is, without prior preparation, to a sufficient extent for communication to be possible. I can actively participate in discussions on familiar topics, expressing and justifying my views.

C1:

I can express my thoughts fluently without preparation, and I don't have to pause to find the right words. I can use language flexibly and effectively in my personal, everyday life and for work.
I can formulate my thoughts and express my opinions accurately and in such a way that others in a conversation can easily understand how my words relate to theirs.

The key difference is how much you can fit into the flow of the dialogue. At C1, it is important not only to speak clearly, but also to speak in such a way that it is clear to everyone else that you understood them, how you understood them, and how everything you say now follows from this.

Conversation skills, monologue

B2:

I can speak clearly and in detail on a fairly wide range of topics that interest me. I can express a point of view on a certain topic, explaining the advantages and disadvantages of different options.

C1:

I can speak clearly and in detail on complex topics, dividing them into subtopics, elaborating on certain aspects, and concluding my discussions with an appropriate conclusion.

As in the previous aspect, at C1 it becomes important how much control you can have over how you are understood. Instead of simply expressing your point of view, as in B2, in C1 it is important to be able to convince the interlocutor. In general, the transition from B2 to C1 is determined by the extent to which you can move from being independent to caring about how your listener understands you.

Letter:

B2:

I can write clear and detailed text on a fairly large number of topics that fall within my area of ​​interest. I may write an essay or report that presents information or argues for or against a particular point of view. I may write a letter emphasizing the personal significance of events or reflecting on my life experiences.

C1:

I can express my thoughts in clear, well-structured text, with some space given to other points of view. I can write an essay, report, or letter on a complex topic and indicate what issues I consider most important. I can choose a style that is acceptable to the recipient of my message.

In writing, when moving from level B2 to C1, it is important that we can write a text not only about what interests us, but also on abstract topics, and not only speak out, but also structure the text, think about the reader, take care of to make him feel comfortable.

Thus, one can imagine that instead of one speech personality, we develop several at once, and choose between them depending on the context.

In general, the transition to level C1 means that a person comes out of the shell of his personal interests and begins to focus on the world around him and partly on the interlocutor. Therefore, in classes you need to reinforce this transition.

How to practice to move from B2 to C1

Oral speech perception:

Listen to thematic popular science or journalistic programs, record their transcripts and draw up a plan for speaking based on the results of these transcripts. Paraphrase and write synopses, short summaries of what you heard, highlighting the main points and emphasis.

Reading

Read popular science and journalistic articles, and consciously choose those that are furthest from your area of ​​interest. Keep a dictionary of terms and expressions that appear in these articles.

Catalogs and descriptions of special-purpose devices are the best material for this. Learn new things about the world around you and write notes for yourself in a popular science style about what you learn.

Dialogue

To develop dialogue skills, you will definitely need a trained interlocutor. A professional teacher is best. Organize discussions with him, polemics by correspondence, or prepare short presentations with a question and answer session.

A conversation club is only suitable if it is part of a course with a group who have studied the same topics as you and are at the same level as you. Otherwise it is useless, unless the teacher has organized an ingenious peer-to-peer teaching scheme, but no one does that.

Letter

In writing, it is important that you know how to choose the genre in which you will write. Therefore, take a topic that was touched upon when you were practicing listening or reading and write three texts on it -

presentation report, article or essay and formal letter. This way you will learn to choose a style and implement different communicative intentions in writing.

What to use?

It is best to use the literature to prepare for the Cambridge CAE or CPE exams - the texts are selected on the most popular topics, and the writing tasks are well formulated to force you to practice in different styles.

If you don’t like textbooks, take authentic materials: TED, BBC. Discovery, Bloomberg thematic sites on economics, politics, medicine - everything will be of help.

Group, yourself, tutor, speaker?

At this level, there are things that you can do on your own - listening training, reading, vocabulary acquisition, but there are also things for which you need a qualified partner, a teacher: giving a presentation for yourself or writing an article that you yourself will read - It's a strange job.

The carrier or our person?

If the Russian teacher is sufficiently qualified, if he is well-educated and interested in understanding the intricacies of new topics with you, this is the best choice.
A speaker will be good if he has deep knowledge of the complex areas you will have to study, and if he has a good understanding of the psychological and structural aspects of speech. In other words, if it is a highly qualified teacher with extensive experience. If you find one, you will be happy. I've seen a couple of these in 18 years.

Do you want to take an English level test right now and find out your level of language proficiency? What are your strengths and what still needs to be learned? We invite you to take a free test online (no registration or email required), consisting of 60 questions. You will receive the result immediately as soon as you answer the last question.

English level test - instructions

The test determines the level of knowledge of the English language and divides students into 5 groups - from initial (elementary) level to advanced.

The test tests knowledge of language structures (36 questions) and vocabulary (24 questions). In total, you need to answer 60 questions, each of which is given a choice of one of four answers. If you do not know the correct answer to a question and do not mark anything, then the answer to it will be considered incorrect.

There is no time limit for taking the test, but try to keep it within 40-45 minutes - this is the time for which this test is designed. For a more accurate assessment of knowledge, it is better not to use dictionaries and textbooks.

Determining your English level

You can determine the result yourself in accordance with the table below, depending on the number of points you score. Read also our articles on how to prepare and pass international tests: and.

Please note that the English level test provides only approximate scores and cannot be used for admission to educational institutions. In addition, this test does not assess your writing, reading or speaking skills.

CEFR level ( Common European Framework of Reference (level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) is a unified system for assessing language knowledge, using which you can compare even the knowledge of different languages, for example, your English is at level B1, and Chinese is at level A2.

So, let's take the test.

TEST (60 questions)

Choose the most appropriate word or phrase for each question